Duranguito news conference: One year since City-backed attempted demolition

September 7th, 2018

Senator, current and former residents, and community members to discuss events of past year, and the future of Duranguito

El Paso – State Sen. José Rodríguez will participate in a news conference with current and former residents of Duranguito, as well as community advocates for the neighborhood, on the one-year anniversary of a City-backed attempted rapid demolition of the neighborhood.

One year ago, a broad range of advocates for the community, including Sen. Rodríguez and other elected leaders, faith-based and grassroots groups, neighborhood association representatives, experts in history and urban design, and other supporters quickly mobilized to protect the neighborhood after an early morning demolition attempt. This led to an all-day standoff before the City-backed attempt was finally abandoned due to court orders further clarifying what should have been clear already – that no demolition was to take place until matters in court had been resolved.

Since then, the community – urban El Paso’s birthplace, as well as a critically important archeological site – has remained alive. Actions in court seek to protect the neighborhood and allow the community to take the next step of planning for a future for Duranguito that honors the residents and history, shield taxpayers from an increasingly expensive sports arena, and serve as the neighborhood-oriented hub of our rich regional heritage tourism potential. Meanwhile, advocates are in Duranguito daily, keeping residents Romelia and Tonita company, and greeting a regular stream of well wishers, former residents who talk about returning, and other supporters.

***
José Rodríguez represents Texas Senate District 29, which includes the counties of El Paso, Hudspeth, Culberson, Jeff Davis, and Presidio. He represents both urban and rural constituencies, and more than 350 miles of the Texas-Mexico border. Senator Rodríguez currently serves as the Chairman of the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus, and is a member of the Senate Committees on Natural Resources and Economic Development; Transportation; Veteran Affairs and Border Security; and Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs (Vice Chair).
-30-